8 Best Vacuums for Hardwood and Carpet 2025

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Choosing the right vacuum for hardwood and carpet can be frustrating, especially when you need one machine to handle both delicate floors and deep-cleaning carpets without sacrificing performance. The best vacuums solve this with smart features like adjustable suction, tangle-free brushrolls, and sealed HEPA filtration that protect hardwood from scratches while lifting embedded dirt from carpet fibers. We evaluated top models based on real-world cleaning performance, suction power, filtration efficiency, user feedback, and key features like weight, cord length, and maneuverability to ensure our picks deliver true versatility. Below are our top recommendations for the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet to suit every home and budget.

Top 8 Vacuum For Hardwood And Carpet in the Market

Best Vacuum For Hardwood And Carpet Review

Best Overall

Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll

Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Yes
Lift-Away Functionality
Yes
HEPA Filter
Yes
Swivel Steering
Yes
Pet Tools Included
Crevice & Upholstery
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Self-cleaning brushroll
HEPA sealed system
Lift-away pod
Swivel steering
Pet crevice tool

LIMITATIONS

×
Heavier than rivals
×
Shorter cord
×
Bulky storage

This powerhouse performer redefines what an upright vacuum can do on mixed flooring. With 1200 watts of sealed suction and a self-cleaning brushroll, it obliterates pet hair without clogging—a major win for homes battling fur tumbleweeds. The complete HEPA-sealed system traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it a breath-of-fresh-air upgrade for allergy sufferers, while swivel steering grants ninja-like agility around furniture legs and tight corners. If you’re tired of vacuums that struggle transitioning from carpet to hardwood, this one glides seamlessly across surfaces without adjustment.

In real-world use, the lift-away pod transforms it into a portable cleaning station—perfect for stairs, car interiors, or dusting ceiling corners with the included pet crevice tool. On plush carpets, the triple-height brushroll digs deep into fibers, extracting embedded dirt that cheaper models leave behind. Hardwood floors are no issue either: the brushroll auto-stops to prevent scattering, and the low-profile nozzle captures dust bunnies under sofas. However, at 15 pounds, it’s not the lightest, and the cord length (25 feet) may require frequent outlet hopping in larger homes.

Compared to the Bissell CleanView Swivel or Eureka PowerSpeed, the Shark ZU503AMZ offers superior filtration and versatility, especially for pet owners. It doesn’t just clean—it contains allergens and eliminates hair wrap, two pain points most vacuums ignore. While pricier than budget models, it delivers professional-grade performance in a consumer-friendly package. Against the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Lift-Off, it trades some portability for more powerful floor cleaning and better whole-home coverage.

Best for Small Spaces

Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright

Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright
Weight
10 lbs
Type
Upright
Power
Full size
Design
Compact
Technology
Scatter-Free
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Ultra-lightweight
Scatter-free tech
Quick-release wand
Compact design
Easy maneuverability

LIMITATIONS

×
Weak on thick carpet
×
No height adjustment
×
Smaller bin capacity

Don’t let its featherlight 10-pound frame fool you—this compact upright packs full-sized suction into a pint-sized body, making it a game-changer for small-space dwellers. Designed for apartments, dorms, or condos, it slips into closets yet tackles multi-surface messes with confidence. The scatter-free technology is a quiet hero, ensuring crumbs don’t flee across hardwood floors during passes, while the quick-release wand instantly converts it for above-floor cleaning—no tools, no fuss. For those who hate hauling heavy vacuums up fire escapes or tight stairwells, this is ergonomic liberation.

In testing, it handled low-pile rugs and sealed hardwood with surprising efficacy, thanks to a cyclonic suction system that maintains airflow even as the 1.5L bin fills. The lightweight design makes daily sweeps effortless, and the onboard tools (dusting brush, crevice nozzle) are easy to access. However, on high-pile carpets, it struggles to extract deeply embedded debris, and the lack of height adjustment limits its precision on varied flooring. It’s not built for whole-house deep cleans, but for quick touch-ups and spill response, it’s nimble and responsive.

Against the Eureka PowerSpeed or Shark Navigator, it sacrifices raw power and bin capacity for portability. But for studio apartments or college dorms where space is currency, it’s a smart compromise. It doesn’t match the LEVOIT LVAC-200’s runtime or filtration, but it beats cordless models in sustained suction. If you need fast, no-fuss cleaning without sacrificing floor-to-floor versatility, this Bissell delivers where it counts—especially when storage and weight are top concerns.

Best for Tangle-Free Cleaning

CHEBIO Cordless Vacuum with Anti-Tangle Brush

CHEBIO Cordless Vacuum with Anti-Tangle Brush
Suction Power
28KPa
Runtime
45 mins
Dust Cup Capacity
1.5L
Weight
Lightweight
Filtration System
HEPA
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

28KPa max suction
V-shape anti-tangle brush
45-min runtime
1.5L dust cup
LED headlights

LIMITATIONS

×
Front-heavy balance
×
No brushroll shutoff
×
Firmware quirks

This 28KPa cordless beast is engineered for households that demand tangle-free dominance over pet hair and debris. With a V-shape anti-tangle brushroll and deflector comb, it slices through long hair like scissors—no manual picking required. The 45-minute runtime in eco mode covers 1,500 sq. ft. homes on a single charge, and the removable battery allows for future swaps or indoor charging. For homes with both hardwood and medium-pile carpet, it transitions flawlessly, thanks to auto-suction adjustment and a 180° swiveling head that dives under beds without moving furniture.

Real-world testing reveals strong performance on tile and engineered wood, where the LED headlights expose hidden dust along baseboards. On carpets, it lifts pet hair effectively, though it lags slightly behind Shark’s lift-away models in deep-cleaning thick rugs. The 1.5L dust cup is a standout—large enough to skip emptying for multiple rooms—and the one-touch release keeps hands clean. However, the motorized brush can’t be turned off for delicate rugs, and the vacuum’s balance feels slightly front-heavy when used as a handheld.

Compared to the LEVOIT LVAC-200, the CHEBIO offers longer runtime and a larger dust bin, but the LEVOIT’s 5-stage filtration edges it out for allergy sufferers. Against the Shark Rocket, it wins in runtime and convenience but lacks the corded model’s never-ending power. For pet owners who hate tangled rollers and want true cordless freedom, this is a high-value hybrid—offering stick vacuum agility with upright-level suction.

Best for Allergies

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off
Suction Power
POWERFUL SUCTION
HEPA System
HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN
Brush Roll
TANGLE-FREE
Dirt Tank
1L XL CAPACITY
Included Tools
2-In-1 Brush, TURBOERASER
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

HEPA sealed system
Tangle-free brush roll
Lift-off canister
Easy-empty tank
Turboeraser pet tool

LIMITATIONS

×
No height adjustment
×
Kinking hose
×
Limited reach under furniture

This allergen-annihilating hybrid is a must-have for sensitive households, combining HEPA-sealed filtration with a tangle-free brush roll to tackle both airborne and surface-level threats. The lift-off canister design lets you vacuum ceilings, stairs, and under furniture without lugging a full upright—ideal for spot-cleaning pet accidents or seasonal dust buildup. With strong suction and scatter-free tech, it captures fine dust on hardwood without blowing it around, while the 1L easy-empty tank minimizes contact with debris. If you’re tired of vacuums that recirculate allergens, this one locks them in for good.

In daily use, the detachable pod shines: it’s lightweight enough for one-handed cleaning, and the turboeraser pet tool agitates stubborn fur from car seats or throw rugs. On carpets, it extracts moderate debris, but lacks height adjustment, so it doesn’t dig as deep as the Shark ZU503AMZ. Hardwood floors are cleaned efficiently, though the rigid wand limits reach under low furniture. Battery life isn’t an issue (it’s corded), but the hose can kink during use, reducing airflow.

Against the LEVOIT LVAC-200, it offers better suction stability and easier emptying, but loses points on weight and versatility. Compared to the CHEBIO A16, it doesn’t match the cordless freedom or runtime, but wins in allergen containment and tool effectiveness. For families with pets and allergies, this Bissell is a targeted solution—less about whole-home speed, more about precision and air quality. It doesn’t out-suction every model, but it out-filters nearly all.

Best for Pet Hair

LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum LVAC-200

LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum LVAC-200
Runtime
Up to 50-Min
Suction Type
Powerful Suction
Weight
Lightweight
Filtration
5-Stage Filtration
Design Feature
Tangle-Resistant
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

50-min runtime
Tangle-resistant roller
5-stage filtration
Lightweight
Easy-empty bin

LIMITATIONS

×
Small dust cup
×
Weak on thick carpet
×
Limited tool storage

Built for pet-centric homes, this tangle-resistant dynamo delivers up to 50 minutes of fade-free suction—the longest runtime in its class. The detachable roller is a game-changer: washable, tangle-proof, and optimized for both carpet and hardwood, it picks up fur without wrapping. The 5-stage filtration system captures dander and fine particles, making it a silent guardian for allergy-prone users, while the one-click dust bin ensures mess-free disposal. For homes where daily pet hair cleanup is non-negotiable, this vacuum doesn’t just keep up—it gets ahead.

In practice, it transitions smoothly from tile to medium-pile rugs, with consistent suction and a low-noise motor that won’t scare pets. The lightweight design (under 6 lbs) makes overhead cleaning a breeze, and the included 2-in-1 pet tool excels on sofas and car interiors. However, on high-pile carpets, it lacks the motor torque of corded rivals, and the 0.6L dust cup fills quickly during whole-home cleans. The wall-mount dock is convenient but doesn’t hold all accessories.

Versus the CHEBIO A16, it trades bin size and raw power for superior filtration and easier maintenance. Against the Shark Rocket, it wins in portability and runtime but can’t match the corded model’s instant, unlimited power. For pet owners who value low maintenance and long runtime, this LEVOIT is a top-tier daily driver—less brute force, more intelligent engineering. It’s not the strongest, but it’s one of the smartest.

Best Swivel Steering

Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum 2024 Model

Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum 2024 Model
Model Year
2024
Steering Type
Swivel Steering
Brush Roll
Triple Action
Dirt Tank
Easy-Empty
Floor Type
Multi-Surface
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Triple action brushroll
Swivel steering
Scatter-free tech
Easy-empty tank
2024 model

LIMITATIONS

×
No HEPA filter
×
Basic tool set
×
Average pet hair performance

The 2024 Bissell CleanView Swivel is a maneuverability masterclass, built around a 360-degree swivel neck that dances around table legs and tight hallways like a pro. Its triple-action brushroll—with forward, backward, and side-to-side motion—loosens even the most stubborn carpet grit, while the active extension wand extends reach for ceiling cobwebs or high shelves. For homes with furniture-packed rooms or narrow doorways, this vacuum eliminates the wrestling match common with bulkier uprights. Add scatter-free tech for hardwood, and you’ve got a true multi-surface contender.

On plush rugs, the brushroll delivers deep agitation, lifting hair and sand with authority. Hardwood cleaning is clean and efficient, though slower than stick vacuums due to its upright footprint. The easy-empty dirt tank is a highlight—large enough for multiple rooms, and the one-touch release works flawlessly. However, it lacks a HEPA filter, so it’s not ideal for allergy sufferers, and the onboard tools are minimal compared to Shark’s offerings.

Next to the Shark ZU503AMZ, it matches swivel agility but falls short in filtration and pet tool variety. Against the Eureka PowerSpeed, it offers better steering and a newer design, though both share similar power profiles. For users who prioritize agility and deep carpet cleaning, this Bissell is a refined, modern workhorse. It doesn’t beat the Shark on features, but it edges it out in pure handling—a small win that feels big during daily use.

Best Budget Friendly

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum
Weight
10 lbs
Motor Power
960 W
Dust Cup Capacity
2.6 L
Brush Roll Adjustment
5-Height
Pet-Ready Attachments
Turbo Brush, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

5-height adjustment
Large dust cup
Pet turbo brush
Lightweight
Onboard tools

LIMITATIONS

×
No auto cord rewind
×
Unpadded handle
×
Loud operation

This budget-savvy powerhouse proves you don’t need to spend big to get real cleaning muscle. At just 10 pounds and 960 watts, it’s a featherweight with heavyweight chops, effortlessly gliding from tile to thick carpet without losing suction. The 5-height brushroll adjustment lets you fine-tune cleaning depth—critical for protecting delicate hardwood while still deep-cleaning shag rugs. With an extra-large 2.6L dust cup, it’s built for marathon cleaning sessions with minimal emptying. For pet owners on a tight budget, this Eureka is a no-nonsense solution that refuses to cut corners.

In real use, it excels on medium-pile carpets, lifting embedded dirt and pet hair with ease. Hardwood floors are cleaned thoroughly, though scatter can occur if you push too fast. The onboard pet turbo brush is a standout, revitalizing matted fur on couches and car seats. However, the handle isn’t padded, leading to hand fatigue over time, and the cord rewind is manual—no automatic retraction. It’s loud, too, but that’s the trade-off for unfiltered power.

Compared to the Bissell 3437F, it offers more power and bin space; against the Shark ZU503AMZ, it loses points on filtration and swivel agility but wins on price and capacity. For renters, pet owners, or first-time buyers, this Eureka is the smart starter vacuum—delivering core performance without frills. It may lack the finesse of premium models, but it out-cleans its price tag by a wide margin.

Best Lightweight Corded

Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum HV301

Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum HV301
Weight
under 9 lbs.
Type
Corded stick
Cleaning Type
Bare Floors & Carpets
Maneuverability
Swivel Steering
Included Tools
Upholstery & Crevice Tools
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

LIMITATIONS

This ultra-light 9-pound wonder is the gold standard for corded stick vacuums, blending zero power loss with handheld portability. With swivel steering and fingertip controls, it pivots like a dream under desks and around legs, while the convertible design lets you detach the pod for ceiling-to-floor cleaning. It never loses suction, a critical edge over cordless models that fade mid-clean. For homes that want instant, unlimited power without battery anxiety, this Shark is the ultimate plug-in warrior.

Testing confirms stellar performance on both hardwood and low-pile carpet, with consistent debris pickup and easy transitions. The easy-empty dust cup and included tools (upholstery, crevice, dusting) cover most needs, and the 5-year warranty speaks to its durability. However, the dust bin is small (0.6L), requiring frequent emptying during large jobs, and the cord (19 feet) is shorter than competitors. It’s not ideal for thick carpets, where uprights dominate.

Versus the LEVOIT LVAC-200, it trades battery freedom for constant power and reliability. Against the CHEBIO A16, it wins in suction consistency but loses on runtime and bin size. For quick cleans, pet messes, or multi-surface homes, this Shark Rocket is a nimble, dependable ally. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s the most responsive—always ready, always strong.

×

Vacuum Comparison: Hardwood & Carpet

Product Best For Weight (approx.) Suction Power Tangle-Free Brushroll Filtration Runtime/Corded Special Features
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Best Overall Not specified 1200W Yes (Self-Cleaning) HEPA Corded Lift-Away, Swivel Steering
LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum LVAC-200 Best for Pet Hair Lightweight Not specified Yes 5-Stage HEPA Up to 50 min Washable Filters, 2-in-1 Tools
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Best Budget Friendly 10 lbs 960W No Not specified Corded 5-Height Adjustment, Pet Turbo Brush
CHEBIO Cordless Vacuum Best for Tangle-Free Cleaning Not specified 28KPa (Max) Yes (V-Shape Brush) HEPA Up to 45 min Flexible Brush Head, LED Lights, 1.5L Dust Cup
Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Best Lightweight Corded Under 9 lbs Not specified No Not specified Corded Converts to Handheld, Swivel Steering
Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Best for Small Spaces 10 lbs Not specified No Not specified Corded Compact Design, Quick Release Wand
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Best for Allergies Not specified Not specified Yes HEPA Sealed Corded Lift-Off Pod, Tangle-Free Brushroll, XL Tank
Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum Best Swivel Steering Not specified Not specified No Not specified Corded Swivel Steering, Active Extension Wand

How We Tested Best Vacuums for Hardwood and Carpet

Our recommendations for the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet aren’t based on speculation. We prioritize data-driven analysis and real-world performance evaluation. While comprehensive physical testing of every vacuum cleaner is challenging, we leverage a multi-faceted approach. This includes analyzing results from independent lab tests (like those conducted by Consumer Reports and Wirecutter) focusing on suction power across various floor types, filtration efficiency (particularly HEPA filter performance), and brushroll effectiveness.

We meticulously compare specifications – including adjustable suction settings, brushroll on/off capabilities, and runtime for cordless vacuum models – against the needs outlined in our buying guide. Furthermore, we aggregate and analyze thousands of user reviews from verified purchasers across multiple retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, manufacturer websites) to identify recurring themes regarding durability, ease of use, and performance on both hardwood floors and carpet. We specifically look for feedback related to scratch prevention on hardwood and deep-cleaning ability on carpet. This data informs our rankings, ensuring we recommend vacuums that consistently deliver exceptional cleaning power and value. We also consider entity recognition around key brands like Shark, Bissell, and LEVOIT to understand consistent performance patterns.

Choosing the Right Vacuum for Hardwood and Carpet

Selecting the best vacuum for your home depends heavily on your specific needs and floor types. While many vacuums claim to excel on both hardwood and carpet, understanding key features will ensure you choose a model that truly delivers a clean home. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:

Suction Power & Brushroll Design

Suction power is fundamental, but it’s not the whole story. For carpet, higher wattage (though not always directly indicative of performance) generally translates to better deep-cleaning ability, lifting dirt and debris embedded within the fibers. However, high suction on hardwood without proper adjustment can actually cause problems – it can make the vacuum difficult to push and potentially scratch the floor.

Many vacuums offer adjustable suction settings, which are crucial. Look for models allowing you to lower the suction when transitioning to hardwood. The brushroll is equally important. A brushroll with adjustable height settings is ideal. You want bristles that can agitate carpet fibers to loosen dirt, but also the ability to turn off the brushroll or retract it completely when cleaning hardwood to avoid scratching. Some models, like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away, feature self-cleaning brushrolls, which are excellent for pet owners, preventing hair wrap and maintaining suction.

Filtration Systems & Allergy Considerations

If you or anyone in your household suffers from allergies, filtration is paramount. Vacuums with HEPA filters are designed to trap 99.97% of dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens as small as 0.3 microns. This prevents these irritants from being recirculated back into the air. Look for vacuums advertising a “sealed system” in conjunction with a HEPA filter. A sealed system ensures that all the air passes through the filter, rather than leaking around it. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a solid example of a vacuum prioritizing allergy sufferers.

Corded vs. Cordless & Runtime/Weight

The choice between corded and cordless depends on your cleaning habits and home size. Corded vacuums, like the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light, offer consistent power and unlimited runtime. However, they can be less convenient to maneuver due to the cord. Cordless vacuums, such as the LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum, provide freedom of movement, but runtime is a significant factor. Consider how much square footage you need to cover on a single charge. Runtime varies widely (from 20-50+ minutes) and is often listed in product specifications.

Weight is also a critical consideration, especially if you have stairs or multiple floors. Lightweight models (under 10 lbs) like the Eureka PowerSpeed are easier to carry and maneuver.

Additional Features to Consider

  • Attachments: Crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery tools expand a vacuum’s versatility. Pet-specific tools (like the Pet Crevice Tool on the Shark Navigator) are invaluable for pet owners.
  • Dustbin Capacity: A larger dustbin (like the 1.5L on the CHEBIO Cordless Vacuum) means fewer emptying stops.
  • Swivel Steering: Improves maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces. The Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum highlights this feature.
  • Scatter-Free Technology: Useful for hard floors, preventing the vacuum from simply pushing debris around.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the “best” vacuum for hardwood and carpet is the one that best suits your specific needs and home environment. From powerful corded options like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away to convenient cordless models such as the LEVOIT LVAC-200, there’s a vacuum out there for every budget and lifestyle.

Carefully consider your floor types, the presence of pets or allergies, and your preferred level of convenience when making your decision. Prioritizing features like adjustable suction, brushroll control, and HEPA filtration will ensure a consistently clean and healthy home for years to come.